Stupid Generator - VCCA Chat

You are not logged in. [Log In] Chat Homepage » Forums » Mr. Goodwrench » Electrical - 6 volt » Stupid Generator

Birthday's

No birthdays today

VCCA Member's Photos

Member's Projects

1930 Phaeton "Miss Daisy" -- Chassis Completed

Page 1 of 2

Topic Options

Rate This Topic

#124637 - 08/03/08 07:49 PM Stupid Generator
stylemaster47 stylemaster47 Backyard Mechanic Registered: 02/21/07 Posts: 216 Loc: Waterloo,wi	Last year I had my generator put on the growler and recut. Worked Great. A month ago, I was driving my car at night, and I noticed the lights were going dim, so I nursed it home. Anyways, I Checked the airgap on the regulator, and the points are super nice, clean. Made sure all of the wires were in good condition. WEll, I thought I had it, cause it was behaving itself. Yesterday, I was on my way back home from a nice summer cruise, and the lights went dim again. Same checks, no dice. I grounded the field and reved it up a bit, and it didn't engage the charge. I then "struck the gen wire against a convienient ground" and no avail. Is it possible to have the generator burn up already? The brushes look great, as does the Armature. Help? _________________________ "I can't believe I ate the whole thing"
Top

#124638 - 08/03/08 08:08 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: stylemaster47]
Junkyard Dog Junkyard Dog Tech Advisor Registered: 11/23/01 Posts: 13589 Loc: Eagle Point, Oregon	Sure, it can happen. You might want to pull the armature and test it on a growler again to confirm if that is your problem. Also, just for grins, you can try polarizing the generator to see if that corrects the problem. When you did the field wire to ground test with engine speed increased, the results indicates that the generator is at fault. $;\)$ $\:\)$ _________________________ The Mangy Old Mutt "If It's Not Junk.....It's Not Treasure!"
Top

#124644 - 08/03/08 08:43 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: Junkyard Dog]
AntiqueMechanic AntiqueMechanic Technical Advisor Registered: 12/02/01 Posts: 4723 Loc: Vancouver, WA	Quote: "struck the gen wire against a convienient ground" Not sure what you did in that action. Was the engine running? Did you use the BTRY wire that connects to the VR? I recommend you follow the first and easy task, remove the belt from the generator, use a jumper wire from a HOT position to the BTRY position on the generator and see if it will motor. That is not the final check, however it eliminates one item in the circuit. I vote for the VR as the guilty party. _________________________ RAY Chevradioman http://www.vccacolumbiariverregion.org/
Top

#124652 - 08/04/08 06:35 AM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: AntiqueMechanic]
stylemaster47 stylemaster47 Backyard Mechanic Registered: 02/21/07 Posts: 216 Loc: Waterloo,wi	The Chevrolet shop manual instructs you to do this with the engine running, to see if the generator is producing current, it should spark a bit. Mine did not. When I motor the Generator, shall I disconnect the Field Wire? _________________________ "I can't believe I ate the whole thing"
Top

#124665 - 08/04/08 09:45 AM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: stylemaster47]
Junkyard Dog Junkyard Dog Tech Advisor Registered: 11/23/01 Posts: 13589 Loc: Eagle Point, Oregon	Actually, grounding the generator lead while the engine is running is another good test to use to determine if the generator is working. That test also failed.....so it really looks like your generator is defective. $;\)$ $\:\)$ _________________________ The Mangy Old Mutt "If It's Not Junk.....It's Not Treasure!"
Top

#124810 - 08/06/08 05:54 AM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: Junkyard Dog]
Denny Graham Denny Graham Backyard Mechanic Registered: 12/03/06 Posts: 283 Loc: Sandwich, IL USA	Correct me if I'm wrong here, I always like to here the principle behind what I'm doing. When you ground the field you are simply by passing the regulator and energizing the magnetic field manually, correct? at idle the ammeter is not going to show a charge on the battery so reving the engine up a little should show a charge, right? And if the generator is putting out an unregulated full charge into a fully charged battery, isn't it possible to over heat the field coils and burn them up? All though I've never seen a caution, there must be some sort of a time limit on running the generator at full charge also. Denny Graham Sandwich, IL
Top

#124822 - 08/06/08 10:00 AM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: Denny Graham]
Junkyard Dog Junkyard Dog Tech Advisor Registered: 11/23/01 Posts: 13589 Loc: Eagle Point, Oregon	The generator isn't run that long....just long enough to test the generator. At any rate, prior to voltage regulators a cut-out was used on top of the generator. In that application the generator field wire is grounded therefore the generator is full fielded. Since the cut-out was only and "off-on" switch for the current flow, the generator was putting out constant voltage to the battery regardless of battery condition. Whatever the output of the third brush was set at, that voltage went to the battery continuously. About the only time a problem would develop was if the third brush was set up with a too high of output and then the generator armature would throw solder and the field coils would get overheated. $;\)$ $\:\)$ _________________________ The Mangy Old Mutt "If It's Not Junk.....It's Not Treasure!"
Top

#124957 - 08/07/08 06:26 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: Junkyard Dog]
stylemaster47 stylemaster47 Backyard Mechanic Registered: 02/21/07 Posts: 216 Loc: Waterloo,wi	Few years back I had purchased a 235 from a 54 truck for parts. It was complete. Including the Generator. Although it appears different physically, not dimentionally though, I am unsure if if is a 12 or 6 volt generator. Is it possible to use this generator while my original is being tinkered with? If it is a 12 is it possible to use the voltage regular to only let it charge to 6? I am a disturbed person who can't sleep if one of my cars is under the weather. I haven't eaten in days, and I am starting to look like Howard Hughes. Any info would be a great help to me and the kleenex boxes on my feet. _________________________ "I can't believe I ate the whole thing"
Top

#124960 - 08/07/08 07:22 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: stylemaster47]
Junkyard Dog Junkyard Dog Tech Advisor Registered: 11/23/01 Posts: 13589 Loc: Eagle Point, Oregon	Do not intermingle 6 volts and 12 volts because you will give yourself more problems and then you won't sleep until 2012! Leave things alone and wait until you get your generator repaired. $;\)$ $\:\)$ _________________________ The Mangy Old Mutt "If It's Not Junk.....It's Not Treasure!"
Top

#124962 - 08/07/08 08:48 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: stylemaster47]
rbl2 rbl2 Oil Can Mechanic Registered: 03/07/05 Posts: 704 Loc: Monticello, Ms	Listen to the dog, he knows of what he speaks. If you put a 12 v generator in a 6 v system in just abfew nights you'll make Howard Hughes at his worst look like Brad Pit. There should be an ID plate on the generator saying what its voltage is. _________________________ Bill
Top

#124969 - 08/08/08 02:42 AM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: stylemaster47]
tonyw tonyw Registered: 05/23/02 Posts: 1121 Loc: Goulburn Australia	Listen to JunkYardDog. If the problem persists talk to him about rebuilding the 6 v generator. Tony _________________________ 1938 1/2 ton Hope to drive it before I retire Chat Group Member
Top

#125026 - 08/09/08 12:08 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: tonyw]
stylemaster47 stylemaster47 Backyard Mechanic Registered: 02/21/07 Posts: 216 Loc: Waterloo,wi	I took it apart today. Outlook not so good. Field wound wires are nice and clean, I can see them through the spot where the insulation used to be...The Field wire inside was broken, the bakelite was shattered, and the wire that runs from the brush to the bakelite was pretty much destroyed. I am calling in a complaint to Delco and let them know how dissapointed I am in their manufacturing, they can't build a generator that lasts more than 61 years. _________________________ "I can't believe I ate the whole thing"
Top

#125030 - 08/09/08 01:47 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: stylemaster47]
AntiqueMechanic AntiqueMechanic Technical Advisor Registered: 12/02/01 Posts: 4723 Loc: Vancouver, WA	Good for you! Don't let them get away with that! _________________________ RAY Chevradioman http://www.vccacolumbiariverregion.org/
Top

#125031 - 08/09/08 02:01 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: stylemaster47]
Junkyard Dog Junkyard Dog Tech Advisor Registered: 11/23/01 Posts: 13589 Loc: Eagle Point, Oregon	That is totally disgusting! There is no reason why that generator shouldn't have lasted at least 62 years! $;\)$ $\:\)$ _________________________ The Mangy Old Mutt "If It's Not Junk.....It's Not Treasure!"
Top

#125208 - 08/12/08 11:42 AM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: Junkyard Dog]
stylemaster47 stylemaster47 Backyard Mechanic Registered: 02/21/07 Posts: 216 Loc: Waterloo,wi	This seems to be an ongoing ordeal. I was able to find a rebuilt Generator from my local purveyor. I put it on a bench tester, it was reading 12+ volts. It is supposed to be 6. Is it possible for a 6 volt generator to produce 12 volts? The field was grounded the entire duration of the test. It looks identical to my bad one. If I install it on the car, is it possible to test it for the actual voltage output, the regulator would then be in place. Help, Hurry! _________________________ "I can't believe I ate the whole thing"
Top

#125222 - 08/12/08 01:46 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: stylemaster47]
canadiantim canadiantim Shade Tree Mechanic Registered: 06/25/07 Posts: 101 Loc: Alberta, Canada	How excactly were you testing it? Being a generator, the faster you spin it, the higher the voltage will be, especially with no electrical load on it. Like those little handcrank flashlights get brighter as you get more ambitious... _________________________ 1938 Canadian Pontiac Business Coupe (aka a 1938 Chev with Pontiac looking front sheet metal)
Top

#125223 - 08/12/08 01:49 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: canadiantim]
Junkyard Dog Junkyard Dog Tech Advisor Registered: 11/23/01 Posts: 13589 Loc: Eagle Point, Oregon	Yes, a 6 volt generator can put out 12 volts. $;\)$ $\:\)$ _________________________ The Mangy Old Mutt "If It's Not Junk.....It's Not Treasure!"
Top

#125250 - 08/12/08 07:17 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: Junkyard Dog]
stylemaster47 stylemaster47 Backyard Mechanic Registered: 02/21/07 Posts: 216 Loc: Waterloo,wi	There would be no liablity on anyone of you guys, but, do you think I should try and run it? _________________________ "I can't believe I ate the whole thing"
Top

#125252 - 08/12/08 07:36 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: stylemaster47]
canadiantim canadiantim Shade Tree Mechanic Registered: 06/25/07 Posts: 101 Loc: Alberta, Canada	I think it will be fine when you try it. Maybe just to be safe have items like the radio turned off so it's only charging the battery and running the coil. That way there is no risk. I'd have a meter connected across the battery so that as soon as you start it you can get an immediate measurement as the hands never work when you're in a rush. Should be a couple volts more than the battery. If it measures ok, start adding some simple loads like the lights and see if the new generator keeps up... Hope you're all fixed up. _________________________ 1938 Canadian Pontiac Business Coupe (aka a 1938 Chev with Pontiac looking front sheet metal)
Top

#125253 - 08/12/08 07:49 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: canadiantim]
stylemaster47 stylemaster47 Backyard Mechanic Registered: 02/21/07 Posts: 216 Loc: Waterloo,wi	I appreciate your concern, northern neighbor. _________________________ "I can't believe I ate the whole thing"
Top

#125282 - 08/13/08 11:24 AM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: stylemaster47]
stylemaster47 stylemaster47 Backyard Mechanic Registered: 02/21/07 Posts: 216 Loc: Waterloo,wi	Okay, all is well again. I Clamped on to the bat terminal with my meter. Started it and watched the voltage the the terminal. 6.04v at idle. At mid rpm it was about 6.94v Turned on the lights, heater, defroster, radio, turn signal, and domelight, at idle it was 5.97v at mid rpm it was around 6.6v I think it is safe to assume all is well. Tell me what you think. _________________________ "I can't believe I ate the whole thing"
Top

#125288 - 08/13/08 01:39 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: stylemaster47]
canadiantim canadiantim Shade Tree Mechanic Registered: 06/25/07 Posts: 101 Loc: Alberta, Canada	Sounds healthy... Check the battery voltage with only headlights on: Compare the battery voltage with the engine running at say a fast idle and then again with the engine turned off. As long as the running voltage is higher, you are fine. What you have described should be functional but do you have a service manual that might show a range of acceptible voltages? (Not sure whether there are any adjustments you could make on this car to get the voltages "just right") _________________________ 1938 Canadian Pontiac Business Coupe (aka a 1938 Chev with Pontiac looking front sheet metal)
Top

#125423 - 08/15/08 05:35 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: canadiantim]
stylemaster47 stylemaster47 Backyard Mechanic Registered: 02/21/07 Posts: 216 Loc: Waterloo,wi	So everybody loves intermittent problems right? Everything worked great for a couple of days. Went to the store today, and I noticed engine was cranked slow. Looked at the ammeter whilst I was driving. No indicated charge. Turned on the head lights, needle went way down. I put a test light inbetween the battery and the cable, with the engine off and all accessories off. No draw. My regulator is sooo clean you could and should eat off of it. The points inside are beautiful and clean, no pits. The wires to the regulator are all fresh. Is it possible to have a relay inside functioning abnormally? I have only see them go out. Not come and go. Is there anything else I may be missing. The ground between the relays and the firewall is good as well. _________________________ "I can't believe I ate the whole thing"
Top

#125426 - 08/15/08 06:29 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: stylemaster47]
Junkyard Dog Junkyard Dog Tech Advisor Registered: 11/23/01 Posts: 13589 Loc: Eagle Point, Oregon	When you installed the latest generator, did you polarize it on the car first? $;\)$ $\:\)$ _________________________ The Mangy Old Mutt "If It's Not Junk.....It's Not Treasure!"
Top

#125433 - 08/15/08 08:49 PM Re: Stupid Generator [Re: Junkyard Dog]
stylemaster47 stylemaster47 Backyard Mechanic Registered: 02/21/07 Posts: 216 Loc: Waterloo,wi	I made quite sure that it was done, as I don't want the points in my regulator to run in reverse, vibrate and burn up. _________________________ "I can't believe I ate the whole thing"
Top

Page 1 of 2

Previous Topic View All Topics

Index Next Topic

Moderator: Coupefan

Hop to:

Your Status

Please login in order to post a note or to reply to an existing post.